The statement said: “We, the auctioneers, have had a frank meeting with the Council and have reaffirmed our legal position and confirmed our commitment to the market going forward, as long as the market remains viable.

“The Market provides an important service to the agricultural community and the Council has always stated that it will provide a new market, so that this vital service can continue.

“In spite of legal proceedings continuing, the Council has requested that we continue our negotiations relating to the terms of a new lease for a new market, if the existing market is to be sold, which we will now take forward.”